Gluten-Free Pizza Takes Manhattan

Yesterday, Mozzarelli’s pizzeria in NYC hosted a Gluten-Free day. The restaurant is usually closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but they opened for a special Sunday Gluten-Free extravaganza. They prepared a whole restaurant full of gluten-free pizza, pasta, desserts and more.

With countless types of pizza, homemade ravioli and even gluten-free zeppoli (the Italian version of doughnuts – but lighter and yummier) I was in a quandary – how could I possibly choose? Luckily, they were giving samples of the great penne alla vodka and gluten-free pasta with pesto sauce. They could pack anything to go, so I ordered the spinach quiche, chicken parmigiano, and two slices of pizza.

I had the chance to talk to Chef Ronny, the genius behind the NY style gluten-free pizza crust. The best balance of texture, flavor and crunch that I have had since my Celiac diagnosis. He was inspired by his niece, who was unable to eat at his restaurant until he developed the special menu. Ronny is excited by the challenge and was particularly proud of the homemade gluten-free breadcrumbs he perfected for yesterday’s menu. Thank goodness, because that enabled him to create the scrumptious eggplant pizza and chicken parm.

The gluten-free zeppoli were perfect – even lighter and more delicate than the gluten-free doughnut holes I had in Denver. They were such a hit they sold out well before closing. But my favorite dessert was the gluten-free cheesecake. Definitely the best I have had in a restaurant (I am partial to my homemade gluten-free cheesecake recipe).

Mozzarelli’s hosted a gluten-free day back in November, but I was in VA being forced to watch football that weekend and missed out on the celebration. If there is continued demand, Mozzarelli’s hopes to host Gluten-Free pizza, pasta and dessert Sundays once a month. I will keep everyone updated when the next event is scheduled. In the meantime, on weekdays they have a selection of 3-4 types of gluten-free pizza by the slice: separated from the regular gluten-glutton pizza and prepared with dedicated equipment. It’s such a luxury to be able to run into a local pizzeria, grab a single gluten-free slice and know that they are taking care to prevent cross-contamination.

Ronny and I had a great time talking about gluten-free baking. I am sure he will continue to excel when facing the challenge and look forward to tasting his new creations. Thank you to everyone at Mozzarelli’s for their warmth, enthusiasm and a delectable gluten-free menu.

ByTheBay said,

December 17, 2007
@ 6:18 am

I totally meant to come and am bummed I missed yet another awesome GF activity in NYC – I was supposed to head down to the city for a meeting but ended up doing a conference call from home due to a combination of bronchitis and bad weather. Hope to meet up soon.

Cassandra said,

December 17, 2007
@ 2:11 pm

Oh, I’m so jealous. It looks absolutely scrumptious!

Erin S. said,

December 17, 2007
@ 2:14 pm

Great write-up, Ms Guide. I am glad you made it and that you got the opportunity to meet Ronny and his staff. They have gone out of their way to experiment with gluten-free cooking and make everything as safe and delicious as possible for the gluten-free community. Thanks again for coming out, despite the weather!

Dianne said,

December 17, 2007
@ 4:00 pm

Wow! How fabulous! I could do with finding a restaurant that sells GF pizza, let alone a whole array og GF pizzas!

Allergic Girl said,

December 17, 2007
@ 4:00 pm

ms guide, i agree, great write up, looks like you really tried all of the goodies. i’m glad i was able to catch up with you at the tail end of the GF party.

TJ said,

December 27, 2007
@ 7:34 pm

Well this post just confirms what I already knew. If I can’t go to Europe for vacation, the next best place is NYC! We’ll be there in May and now we’ll be checking out Mozzarelli’s when we come! I’ll be sure and tell the Chef who sent me! Now I’m really dying for Pizza Fusion to open in Atlanta…the opening date’s moved out to June due to them losing their first space.

Catherine said,

January 8, 2008
@ 1:34 am

bythebay – you need to get down here soon, just let me or AG know when you can make it to the city.

Cassandra – start planning your NYC trip

Erin – thanks for organizing such a great event!

Dianne – I know you must be itching for a trip out of the UK, what better place than NYC for a gluten-free journey?

Catherine said,

Update on Pizza Fusion in Atlanta – opening date has been pushed back to September. When they finally do open, we are taking our GF dinner club there for a pizza party – complete with gluten free pizza, brownies and beer!

Spud said,

August 18, 2008
@ 2:56 pm

Update! Mozzarelli’s is now open every Saturday from noon to 7PM. I just called them this morning.

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